Proposal to arm school staff members has deep flaws

Require an armed employee in every Indiana public school? This idea has so many flaws that I hardly know where to start.

1. Columbine had an armed guard, which didn't prevent that mass shooting.

2. The estimated $10 million startup cost might be provided, but who finances the continuation of the program? Schools already have funding problems.

3. Where in the building will this armed person be located? Even small schools have several entrances.

4. If the armed person is a teacher, what does he do with his 25 to 30 students when needed to pursue an intruder? And how will the staff member be alerted? Add a radio to the needed equipment and perhaps a bullet proof vest.

5. Who protects the students when this armed person is sick or is out of the building to attend a conference or on a field trip?

6. What if this person retires, is transferred or quits?

7. This armed person will carry a few rounds of ammunition and have only one sidearm? Most intruders enter a school with several weapons, several rounds of ammunition and quite often an assault weapon. Not much of a match.

8. Educators are active when teaching. What prevents his or her weapon from being dropped or going off accidentally?

9. Sometimes educators have physical contact with students who are fighting. How does this weapon remain safely holstered during such incidents?

10. Who provides armed safety on the school bus or on the way to and from the playground or athletic field?

11. There are a number of students attending public schools who have mental and attitude issues. Placing a weapon near them is a potential problem.

These are just a few concerns that come to mind. After spending 40 years in the classroom, I just don't see armed educators as the answer to school safety concerning gun violence.